Do you want decisions from judges of your own choice? CJP asks PTI lawyer

ISLAMABAD: Chief Justice (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa rejecting Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf (PTI) objections against him has remarked that differences are natural but should not lead to undermining institutions.

The CJP made these remarks during a Supreme Court hearing regarding the establishment of election tribunals in Punjab, PTI’s lawyer, Hamid Khan, raised objections against Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa. In response, the Chief Justice questioned whether the PTI lawyer wanted decisions from judges of his choice.

Hamid Khan mentioned that PTI had already submitted a request, but the Chief Justice emphasized that the Additional Attorney General would be heard first.

When Hamid Khan insisted on the separation of the bench, in response, Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa rejected the objection and remarked that if he wished to recuse himself, he could do so.

The Chief Justice asked Hamid Khan to remain seated, assuring him that he would be heard later. Following this, Hamid Khan left the courtroom.

The Chief Justice, while responding to the objection, remarked that if Hamid Khan wished to recuse himself from the case, he was free to do so. He further stated that the country requires stability, and differences are natural but should not lead to undermining institutions.

The Chief Justice underscored that it is essential to let institutions work and added that writing letters back and forth does not solve issues, stressing the need for cooperation between institutions.

During the proceedings, the Election Commission’s lawyer informed the court that the issue regarding the tribunals has been resolved. Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail also noted that tribunal decisions have started coming from Balochistan.

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The Chief Justice emphasized the urgency of concluding election disputes quickly and stated that the tenure of parliament cannot be extended by even a single day. He also criticized past cases that were delayed due to stay orders, mentioning that a former Deputy Speaker had violated the constitution by obtaining such an order.

The Chief Justice further remarked that while disputes may arise, it does not justify attacking institutions. He clarified that according to the constitution, the formation of tribunals is the exclusive authority of the Election Commission.

The session concluded with the Chief Justice urging the Election Commission to adopt a proper and transparent process in such matters, and Justice Mandokhail emphasized the importance of mutual respect between institutions.